Architecture & Design

Architecture & Design | 21 C O M P U T E R C E N T R E M I D M E D B A N K , S a n t a Ve n e r a , 1 9 6 8 [ d e m o l i s h e d ] distinct "simplified neolithic motives" fashioned in limestone and the volumes unified with concrete elements. In my view the Dolmen truly highlights Richard's mastery at being an architectural sculptor where he daringly embraced a sacred place with his own interpretation of Maltese contemporary architecture, almost exalting the ancient ruins. All this now is a far cry since the hotel was extended in every direction and practically all of the 60s fabric done away with reducing the archaeology to merely part of the soft landscaping. Just slightly further inland stood the Hyperion, a modest, toned down version of his other hotels due to budget constraints. Again the clean, simplified volumes were carved such as to maintain an impression of "growing out of the ground" then still virgin garigue just like at Ramla Bay. Pure rows of verandas punctured with segmental and compass arches all harking to the traditional loġoġ bil-ħnejjiet so popular in the north and Gozo characterised the asymetric sea-facing elevation. The new millenium saw the Hyperion making way for what is today the San Antonio Hotel. At the head of Salina Bay close to the historic salt pans, the last and largest in Richard England's early hotel series was opened in 1970 when he was just 33. It has been described as an evolution of his previous designs, presented with a rocky site gently sloping down to the sea. A central tower, lofty yet elegant housing the staircases, lifts and suites was flanked by accommodation wings stepping down to low one- storey amenities, covered walkways and terraces. Here was a maturing confidence in amalgamating perpendicular planes and volumes, materials and hues, recollecting the vernacular which England championed so fervently hoping intrigued guests would venture out and explore Malta's urban and rural delights, so unique to our islands. Silhouetted Salina Bay Hotel could easily have been taken for a small, dome-capped village. Altered, expanded and lately renamed Salini Resort, some attempt was made at following the hierarchical massing, however its inflated proportions, "neutral" colours and textures have pushed it far away from its native origins. Down south had remained quite underexploited during this period. England's only commission here at the time was at Marsascala where he laid out the charming Ta' Monita Tourist Complex, opened in 1968. As ever, brief and site decreed the S A L I N A B AY H O T E L , S a l i n a , 1 9 7 0 [ a l t e r e d ] D O L M E N H O T E L , B u g i b b a , 1 9 6 6 [ a l t e r e d ]

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